Everton have shown an interest in Arsenal's Ainsley Maitland-Niles, according to a report from the Mail.

They claim that the Blues have identified Maitland-Niles, currently on loan at West Bromwich Albion, as a right-back target.

Manchester United, Leeds United and Southampton are also credited with interest.

Maitland-Niles has however expressed a preference for playing in midfield.

How has Maitland-Niles done at West Brom?

The 23-year-old has made 12 appearances for the now-relegated Baggies since his January loan switch.

He's averaged 1.8 tackles, 0.8 interceptions, 1.3 clearances, 0.8 shots and 1.3 dribbles per 90 minutes (via WhoScored).

Maitland-Niles is valued at £16.2million by Transfermarkt is about to enter the final two years of his contract at the Emirates.

Everton may be in the hunt for a long-term Seamus Coleman successor this summer - it's been reported that Norwich City's Max Aarons is also under consideration, but he could cost as much as £30million (via The Times).

Fan feed The Toffee Blues relayed the Maitland-Niles rumour, and here's how fans reacted.

These Everton fans urge club not to pursue Maitland-Niles transfer

"He went to West Brom because he doesn't want to play right back. I think we've given Arsenal enough money for players who aren't good enough for them as well."

Credit: @terrymcallister

"Buying from Arsenal cast offs have never worked. Walcott and Iwobi being the latest 2."

Credit: @Anthony20Chall

"Iwobi Mk2"

Credit: @leapfrog200

"Awful !!"

Credit: @AlwaysBlue7

"Don’t want him anywhere near our club."

Credit: @MainManMina

"Waste of transfer... Carlo can't rebuild the team with a player like this"

Credit: @Babby008

"No , just Aarons plz"

Credit: @daf_xf105

In other news, Fabrizio Romano delivered a concerning update on Aarons.